West Virginia Northern Community College
Out-of-state tuition
$12,698
In-state $4,706
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
1,525
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
29.6%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 30.9%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
West Virginia Northern Community College (WVNCC) is a prominent institution located in the scenic northern region of West Virginia. Established with a mission to provide accessible, high-quality education, the college serves a diverse student body across its campuses in Wheeling, New Martinsville, and Weirton. WVNCC is known for its strong commitment to community engagement and workforce development, offering a variety of programs that align with local industry needs. The college emphasizes practical education, equipping students with the skills necessary for successful careers in fields such as healthcare, business, and technology.
The college's campus culture fosters a supportive and inclusive environment, encouraging students to participate in various extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations. This vibrant student life enhances their educational experience and promotes personal growth. Additionally, WVNCC prides itself on a dedicated faculty who are not only experts in their respective fields but also deeply invested in student success. The college's commitment to student-centered learning is reflected in its small class sizes, which facilitate personalized attention and mentorship. With a focus on academic excellence and community service, West Virginia Northern Community College continues to be a vital educational resource in the region, preparing students for both professional and personal achievement.
Analysis of Key Trends at West Virginia Northern Community College
The data from West Virginia Northern Community College reveals several significant trends worth discussing. Firstly, there has been a notable increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. For instance, from 2014 to 2024, in-state tuition has risen from $2,890 to $4,544, marking a 57% increase. Similarly, out-of-state tuition has surged from $8,386 to $12,728, representing a 52% increase. This upward trajectory in tuition costs could pose challenges for prospective students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, as they may find it increasingly difficult to afford college.
In terms of student enrollment, there is a concerning downward trend in the number of undergraduate students. Enrollment has dropped from 2,505 in 2013 to just 1,222 in 2023, indicating a decline of approximately 51%. This decline may reflect broader demographic trends, such as a decreasing population in the region or increasing competition from other educational institutions. It raises questions about the college's marketing strategies and its ability to attract and retain students.
Moreover, the graduation rates have shown some improvement over the years. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has increased from just over 10% in 2013 to about 20% in 2023. This positive trend may indicate that the college is successfully implementing measures to support student success, which is crucial in enhancing its reputation and attracting future students.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 10 to 16 students per faculty member over the years. A lower ratio typically allows for more personalized attention for students, which can be a significant factor in student satisfaction and retention.
Overall, while there are encouraging signs in graduation rates, the rising tuition costs and declining enrollment are critical issues that the college must address to ensure its sustainability and growth in the future.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Pittsburgh, about 45 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), about 40 mi
- Also known as
- WVNCC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Daniel Mosser (President)
- Phone
- 3042335900
- City
- Wheeling, West Virginia
- Address
- 1704 Market St., Wheeling, WV 26003-3699
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at West Virginia Northern Community College
The graduation data from West Virginia Northern Community College reveals some noteworthy trends and insights. Notably, the institution appears to have a strong emphasis on associate degree programs, particularly in fields like Registered Nursing, where 35 students graduated in this category. This is indicative of the growing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, in the current job market, which has been underscored by ongoing public health challenges.
Interestingly, the data shows that there are no international students graduating from any of the bachelor's, master's, or doctorate programs, suggesting a potential area for growth in attracting diverse student populations. This aligns with national trends where institutions are increasingly seeking to diversify their student body to enrich campus culture and academic discourse.
Moreover, many technical and vocational programs, such as Welding Technology and Early Childhood Education, have also seen a modest number of graduates, indicating the college's role in addressing local workforce needs. The absence of graduates in higher degree categories may reflect a strategic focus on practical skills and immediate job readiness over traditional academic pathways.
Overall, the data highlights the college's commitment to equipping students with practical skills necessary for the workforce while also presenting opportunities for future growth in attracting international students and expanding graduate-level offerings. The current landscape calls for institutions to adapt and innovate in their program offerings to meet both local and global educational demands.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Health Information/Medical Records Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Medical/Clinical Assistant. | - | |
| Surgical Technology/Technologist. | $47,247 | |
| Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer. | $47,247 | |
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician. | - | |
| Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $64,927 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - | |
| General Studies. | - | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - | |
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Electromechanical/Electromechanical Engineering Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Industrial Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians, Other. | - | |
| Petroleum Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |
| Kindergarten/Preschool Education and Teaching. | - | |
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Police Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Welding Technology/Welder. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Science Technologies/Technicians, Other. | - |
Students
1,525 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 61.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 435
- First-year undergraduates 270
- Transfers and others 820
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,525)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at West Virginia Northern Community College in 2023
The student demographic data for West Virginia Northern Community College in 2023 reveals interesting insights into the composition of its undergraduate and graduate populations. Notably, the incoming undergraduate freshmen consist of 258 students, with 42.6% identifying as male and 57.4% as female. This indicates a healthy gender diversity among new entrants, with a higher percentage of females.
For the undergraduate seniors, there are 514 students, with a significant gender disparity; only 30.7% are male, while 69.3% are female. This trend suggests that the institution is attracting more female students at the senior level, which may reflect broader educational trends where women are increasingly pursuing higher education.
The transfer student group comprises 96 individuals with a gender ratio of 35.4% male and 64.6% female, mirroring the patterns observed in the freshmen and seniors. This consistency across different categories points to an overall trend of higher female enrollment across all undergraduate levels.
Interestingly, the data for graduate students and their demographic breakdown is not available, leaving a gap in our understanding of the gender balance and diversity among advanced degree seekers at the college.
Moreover, the racial and ethnic compositions of these groups reveal that White students dominate the population, although specific percentages are not detailed in the available data. This raises questions regarding the inclusivity and representation of other racial and ethnic backgrounds within the college, especially in light of ongoing national discussions about diversity in education.
In conclusion, while West Virginia Northern Community College appears to be fostering a gender-diverse environment among its students, further exploration into racial and ethnic diversity is essential to understanding the full scope of its student body composition.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at West Virginia Northern Community College
The age composition of students at West Virginia Northern Community College reveals intriguing trends that reflect broader societal patterns in education. The data shows a predominance of younger students, particularly those under 18 years old, who represent a significant portion of the student body, with 97 males and 188 females. This indicates that the institution is likely catering to a substantial number of recent high school graduates.
As the age increases, the number of students enrolled begins to decline sharply. For instance, in the 18-19 age group, there are still a healthy number of students—137 males and 181 females—but as we look at older age brackets, the figures drop significantly. Notably, the 30-34 age group has only 15 males and 53 females, and the participation of students over the age of 65 is minimal, with only 2 females enrolled. This trend may suggest that the college primarily serves traditional students, while non-traditional students, who are often older and may be pursuing degrees later in life, are underrepresented.
Moreover, the absence of graduate male students in the data raises questions about gender balance and academic progression within the institution. The female graduate enrollment also stands at zero, indicating that this community college may not offer graduate programs or that there is a barrier preventing older students from pursuing further education.
Overall, the data highlights a youthful demographic at West Virginia Northern Community College, which may be reflective of the current educational landscape where younger individuals are increasingly accessing higher education, while older populations are less engaged. This presents an opportunity for the college to explore programs that attract non-traditional students and address the educational needs of a broader age spectrum.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
9 in 2025 · 0.5% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at West Virginia Northern Community College
The international student enrollment data at West Virginia Northern Community College reveals significant fluctuations over the years, indicating a complex landscape for attracting and retaining international students. In the early years, such as 2005 to 2011, the numbers were notably low, with the percentage of international students in the undergraduate population hovering between 0.03% and 0.14%. This trend suggests limited outreach or appeal to international students during that period.
A remarkable increase occurs in 2014, where the percentage of international students jumps to 0.58% with 12 students enrolled, indicating a potential shift in the college's strategy or programs that catered to international students. However, this increase was not sustained in the following years, as the figures fluctuated again. For instance, in 2019, the percentage peaked at 0.84% before experiencing a decline in subsequent years.
The data from 2020 onwards indicates a broader trend affecting many institutions due to the global pandemic, which likely disrupted international student mobility. The numbers dropped to 5 international students in 2020, reflecting challenges faced by educational institutions in maintaining enrollment during such uncertain times.
As we move into 2023, the percentage of international students has decreased to 0.33%, suggesting that although there are efforts to revitalize enrollment, the challenges remain significant. This data underscores the importance for West Virginia Northern Community College to develop targeted strategies to enhance its appeal to international students, particularly in light of the competitive global education market. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for the college's future growth and diversity.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$21,442
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $12,698
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $4,706
- Room and board
- $8,744
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 25% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 119%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$16.7M
Expenses$18.8M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Washington and Jefferson CollegeWashington · 26.5 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Robert Morris UniversityMoon Township · 41.5 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Duquesne UniversityPittsburgh · 46.2 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh CampusPittsburgh · 48.3 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Carnegie Mellon UniversityPittsburgh · 48.8 mi
U.S. News #14
-
Chatham UniversityPittsburgh · 49.7 mi
U.S. News #236
-
West Virginia UniversityMorgantown · 50.3 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Kent State University at KentKent · 81.6 mi
U.S. News #236
-
College of WoosterWooster · 82.1 mi
Liberal Arts #91
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near West Virginia Northern Community College:
-
Carnegie Mellon University - Ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, Carnegie Mellon is a prestigious research university known for its strong programs in computer science, engineering, and the arts.
-
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - This university ranks 67th nationally and is recognized for its research initiatives and diverse academic offerings, particularly in health sciences and engineering.
-
Duquesne University - With a rank of 151, Duquesne is a private university offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts and professional education.
-
Robert Morris University - Ranked 201st, this university focuses on providing practical and career-oriented education, with a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
West Virginia University - As the state's flagship university, WVU is ranked 216th and offers a wide range of academic programs and research opportunities, particularly in engineering, medicine, and agriculture.
-
Ohio State University-Main Campus - Ranked 43rd, OSU is one of the largest universities in the nation and is known for its comprehensive academic programs and vibrant campus life.
These institutions offer a variety of academic programs and opportunities for students in the region, making them excellent choices for higher education.
Peer median 0.4 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at West Virginia Northern Community College
The crime data from West Virginia Northern Community College over the years reveals significant fluctuations in crime rates on campus. In particular, 2021 stands out with a marked increase in crime, recording a rate of approximately 0.798% per 1,000 students, which is considerably higher compared to the preceding years. This spike could warrant further investigation into its causes, potentially linked to social dynamics or external factors affecting college communities during that period.
Interestingly, the years 2016 and 2020 reported no crimes, suggesting that certain years may have been particularly safe for students. The overall trend appears to oscillate, with a notable increase in 2022 followed by a slight decrease in 2023. It raises questions about the effectiveness of campus safety measures and their responses to incidents.
Additionally, the data indicates that arrests related to drug offenses, alcohol-related incidents, and domestic violence are among the concerns that institutions like West Virginia Northern Community College must address. The presence of such incidents not only impacts student safety but also their academic experience.
Overall, while some years show promising trends toward reduced crime rates, the fluctuations highlight the need for continuous monitoring and proactive measures to ensure a safe educational environment. Understanding these crime trends is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies and fostering a secure campus atmosphere. For detailed insights into calculating crime rates, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.